The 13 Best Cross-Training Shoes of 2025, Personally Tested by Certified Trainers

Why We Like It

If you’re in need of a cross-training shoe that can perform at maximum effort through strength training, cardio, and dynamic workouts, the Reebok Nano X5 is one of the best cross-training shoes for the job. As the 15th iteration of this popular gym shoe, the Nano X5 boasts a revamped DUALRESPONSE EVA foam midsole design as well as stylish hues fit for any aesthetic.

I’ve been training in these Reebok Nano X5s since their release in early 2025 and can confidently say they’re my favorite Nano edition to date. The new midsole design provides excellent stability through traditional gym sessions, yet can comfortably support general running endeavors, too — something previous Nanos struggled with. I rate the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5, too, since these can be worn as part of an athleisure get-up without leaving your feet tired and aching at day’s end.

The Nano X5s feature a FLEXWEAVE upper material that’s reminiscent of previous installments like the Nano X3. While I find this textile lightweight and plenty breathable for regular training, I do note that this FLEXWEAVE can stretch excessively over time. While I rate the fit at 5 out of 5 from my experiences, the stretchy nature may be disheartening for those wanting a more “locked-in” feel.

The outsole traction of the new decoupled outsole is also worthwhile, earning a 4 out of 5 in testing. I had no issues with slips or missteps across samples of the best home gym flooring, and there’s enough tackiness to support treadmill runs, too. Of course, though, the flat nature and lack of protruding lugs do limit the Nano X5’s versatility as an on-road or trail runner — it’s best to reserve these kicks for indoor workouts only.

Finally, style earns a score of 4 out of 5 thanks to the robust colorways offered. Currently, Reebok offers six unisex and seven women’s-specific hues. If you’d prefer more variety, though, we recommend the NOBULL Outwork Edge series with 10 available colorways and routine special releases.

Good for: Athletes wanting a well-rounded cross-training shoe that can support virtually all workout disciplines.

Why We Like It

Finding a pair of cross-training shoes to support flat feet can be tricky — you don’t want to overcompensate your arch with a high heel-to-toe drop, yet should look for some stability features to support optimal comfort. Thanks to a rigid heel counter and moderate 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, NOBULL’s Outwork Edge series (previously marketed as the brand’s Impact series) is our go-to recommendation for flat-footed athletes. Studies suggest that mobility control features, like a rigid heel counter and dual-density midsoles, can be beneficial for flat feet as they can effectively limit rearfoot eversion and create a cushioned, stable platform for every step. (1)

I’ve trained in these NOBULL Outwork Edges before and do believe they’re a more elevated version of the brand’s flagship NOBULL Trainer (now known as Outwork). While they do take a while to break in, the extra cushioning is supportive enough for high-intensity training sessions yet isn’t so rigid that you feel like you’re walking with concrete kicks. I also appreciate the more rigid heel counter for extra stability, especially in the hightop silhouettes that can provide some much-needed rigidity across your Achilles.

The Outwork edges also boast a herringbone outsole pattern for improved traction. I rate this outsole at 4.5 out of 5 and feel it’s ideal for those traversing rubber gym floors and turfed training areas, alike. I’ve also had no traction issues while treadmill running, although I feel this design is more intended for circuit training.

Another impressive component with these cross-trainers is the ultra-durable SuperFabric upper. This one-piece design can withstand plenty of abuse without showing any signs of wear and tear. While I rate the durability at 5 out of 5, I do dock this NOBULL offering when it comes to breathability. The SuperFabric is plenty tough, but fails to efficiently wick away moisture from your toes and sort of traps any internal heat until you go to unlace your sneakers. More breathable cross-trainers include the Reebok Nano X5 and TYR CXT-2s, among others.

Good for: Flat-footed athletes in search of a durable, stylish cross-training shoe.

Why We Like It

To create that desirable fit that’s supportive enough for side-to-side movements yet stable enough for static exercises like a back squat, some cross-training shoes feature a narrow last that’s snug across your feet. While this can be fine for many individuals, wide-footed athletes may be met with more discomfort than not. The Nike Metcon 9s, though, appeal to larger-footed athletes thanks to a redesigned profile that’s more accommodating than previous iterations.

If you’re privy to cross-training shoes, the Metcons are likely one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the category. However, a problem that’s plagued past iterations has been a narrow toe box designed for quick agility movements and improved stability. Our tester, though, states, “These feature one of the widest toe box designs I’ve seen from Nike, which should appeal to a wider range of sizes.” We give the Metcon 9s a 4.5 out of 5 for fit, too, since the size range is expansive from 3.5 to 15.

Like previous Metcon standouts, this Nike cross-trainer performs well in the gym, and we appreciate the updated durability of the new mesh upper and elongated rope guard along the medial (inner) side of the shoe. In my experience with these kicks, I’ve yet to have any issues regarding wear and tear, scoring the Metcon 9s at 4 out of 5 for durability.

However, these shoes are pretty heavy at 13.55 ounces, which limits their versatility when it comes to cardio workouts like sprints or agility drills. We rate the versatility at a modest 3 out of 5 and recommend the Reebok Nano X5s or TYR CXT-2s if you’re in need of a more multifaceted sneaker. “If I had to choose one group the Metcons are best for,” says our tester, “It’s athletes that primarily lift in the gym yet are still mixing in some cardio every once in a while — think a light jog as part of their cool-down exercises or some quick sprints from circuit to circuit in a CrossFit box. Anything more extensive, in my opinion, calls for a more dedicated running shoe.”

Good for: Wider-footed individuals wanting a cross-training shoe primarily for lifting exercises.

Why We Like It

As the late, great Louie Simmons once said, “Don’t have $100 shoes and a 10-cent squat.” You can perform this beneficial strength training exercise in any of the footwear options we’ve outlined in this guide. However, when it comes to achieving that optimal setup and depth in your movement, we feel the Adipower Weightlifting 3s from Adidas can help you achieve this positioning best thanks to their high-pitched 22-millimeter heel-to-toe drop that allows your knees to travel forward more naturally for a more comfortable plane of motion overall.

I’ve trained in these Adipower 3s before and think they’re the best representation of a “cross-training shoe” when it comes to weightlifting shoes. It’s no secret that these clogs are designed for specific movements, earning them a 2 out of 5 for versatility. Still, I’ve been able to easily cycle through back squats, Olympic lifts, and other static exercises without much effort thanks to the increased forefoot flexibility. You wouldn’t want to run a mile in these kicks, but they’re not built for that.

The stability underfoot is great in these Adidas weightlifting shoes. I rate the Adipower 3s at 4 out of 5 for the category because it was easy to find my footing each time I went under the bar for a set. There’s also a good sense of traction across the rubber outsole, which can help you keep your feet whether you’re lifting on a hardwood platform or synthetic gym flooring.

The canvas upper, lacing system, and midfoot hook-and-loop strap also help curate a strong lockdown — a great perk when the last thing you want is to feel your feet moving within your footwear during heavy PRs. I rate the security at 4.5 out of 5, but be mindful — canvas is not as breathable as knit textiles, so it may be beneficial to unstrap and let your toes breathe in-between sets. If you’re on the hunt for a more breathable weightlifting shoe, I’d recommend a profile such as the TYR L-1 Lifter.

Good for: People prioritizing squats and Olympic lifts within their workout programming.

Why We Like It

The barefoot movement has gotten a lot of traction (pun intended) in the running community over the past few years, but the grounded sensation can also be beneficial in the weight room, too. For our money, the Xero Prios are our top pick for minimalist training footwear thanks to their anatomical toe box, sub-$100 price point, and (of course) the 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop.

Admittedly, I’ve been dipping my toes (OK, last one) in minimalist footwear over the past few months and found these Prios to be the best entry point into the discipline. The upper cloaks my foot effortlessly, while the outsole provides that helpful safety barrier to keep setups as close to actual barefoot strength training without worrying about stepping on a loose pebble or rogue bottle cap in the gym.

I also appreciate the versatility baked into these minimalist cross-trainers, scoring them at 4 out of 5 for the category. Yes, the footbed is flexible enough to support both cardio training and strength training, but I also like how the insole is removable, in case you want to get even closer to the ground in your stances.

As far as durability, I rate the Xero Prios at 4.5 out of 5. The upper is thicker than other knit textiles I’ve trained in, which can be great for keeping the profile intact over extended use. Granted, thicker materials can often lead to breathability issues — that con isn’t escaped with the Prios, either — but I’m willing to look past this for the sake of heightened durability.

If breathability is a concern of yours, I’d suggest looking at the DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers from TYR, which feature a lighter mesh upper with pronounced vents.

I will say that these aren’t the sleekest barefoot cross-trainers I’ve found on the market. For one, the available colorways are limited to just six hues — a drop-off from the common 10 or more available in other silhouettes. Additionally, I score the style at 3.75 out of 5 because of the fatter, rounded laces. They protrude outward over the top of the foot, giving the silhouette a somewhat awkward look at times.

Good for: Barefoot training enthusiasts wanting a cross-training sneaker for in-gym workouts.

Why We Like It

Sure, cross-training shoes are intended to be versatile enough for both cardio and strength-training disciplines, but oftentimes, the design of a shoe can lend itself more to one modality or the other. As such, I typically recommend keeping a dedicated pair of running shoes at your disposal when looking to hit the treadmill or streets… or just train in these UA Dynamic 2s from Under Armour.

While I haven’t trained in these specific Under Armour sneakers, I do have experience with each component featured in the design, particularly the UA Flow midsole and outsole. This all-in-one design element helps keep the shoes lightweight at just 9.7 ounces, and the foam is surprisingly comfortable and responsive — perfect for tackling sprints atop the best treadmills your gym has to offer.

I do highlight treadmill runs, though, since durability can be problematic when running outdoors. Rough asphalt and pavement can quickly wither away at the traction and grip, so I score the durability at a conservative 3 out of 5 and recommend reserving these for indoor use.

In terms of over-the-foot comfort, I’ve been a huge fan of Under Armour’s UA IntelliKnit textile. It’s stretchy enough to provide that sock-like aesthetic, and the bootie-style ankle collar wraps comfortably around my Achilles with little irritation. I score the comfort at 4 out of 5, too, since there’s plenty of UA Flow underfoot to keep every step as light as ever.

That foam content may get in the way of some PR lifts, though. I’ve had compression issues during heavy deadlift and back squat sessions. For a more rigid setup underfoot, we recommend something like the Nike Metcon 9s or TYR CXT-2s.

Finally, the Dynamic 2s take a more minimalistic approach to style with neutral colorways akin to lifestyle sneakers. There are only small splashes of colors across the six available designs, primarily in the lacing stitches and UA emblem near the heel. Style can be subjective, but I do wish Under Armour offered a wider range of colorways in this run-ready silhouette. As such, I score the style at 3.5 out of 5.

Good for: Athletes wanting a running-proficient gym shoe with lightweight foam and a grippy outsole.

Why We Like It

Rope climbs can be some of the most strenuous exercises on your footwear. After all, you’re constantly scraping the medial sides of your kicks across the equipment, which can lead to quick burnout in less-than-capable cross-trainers. With a built-in Rope-Tec system that serves as a graphene-infused barrier (more on this material later) between your shoes and the rope itself, the F-Lite G 300s from Inov-8 are our top recommendation for climbing enthusiasts.

We rate these sturdy, resilient cross-trainers at 5 out of 5 for durability thanks to the aforementioned Rope-Tec system, as well as the brand’s inclusion of graphene across the outsole and midsole design. Traditionally used for parachutes, graphene is one of the strongest textiles on the planet, yet despite its burliness, doesn’t add on weight to the profile.

“Such durable materials may imply that these shoes would be heavy,” notes our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, “But I was pleasantly surprised that these cross-training shoes weighed in at just 10.5 ounces. This also allowed me to take advantage of the midsole’s responsiveness during quick runs atop multiple surfaces like turf and asphalt.”

Inov-8 also beefed up this F-Lite G 300 with an external midfoot cage, adding some side-to-side stability that can be helpful during static lifts. However, I do caution that you take your time when lacing these kicks up. The cage also houses the lace eyelets, and quick tugs for cinching down could lead to rips and tears.

We also score the appearance of these cross-trainers at 4.5 out of 5. The colorways are stylish enough and appealing to our tastes, but the variety is more neutral than vibrant. “I personally don’t enjoy a loud cross-trainer, so these fit right in with my look of choice,” adds our tester.

Finally, our tester rates the fit at 4 out of 5 since the collar can give some wider-footed athletes a bit of a challenge given the upper’s limited stretch and flexibility. If you’re looking for a smooth entry and stretchy upper, I’d recommend a mesh textile found on profiles like the Reebok Nano X5 or TYR CXT-2.

Good for: Those that regularly program rope climbs into their workout routine.

Why We Like It

Having a good sense of arch support can help you stay comfortable during workouts whether grounding your stance for a heavy lift or trying to fine-tune that proper walking form. The Kawana 2s from HOKA can support these needs with a comfortable midsole design and added security across the lateral and medial sides of the foot.

I’ve trained in previous versions of this shoe and do feel that the upgrades across this second iteration are worthwhile. While I rate the style at a conservative 3.5 out of 5 — this is one profile where HOKA is leaning into its prominence as a lifestyle sneaker — I still feel there are some hues that can set off your ideal gym ensemble.

The tread pattern seems to be grippy enough for multiple surfaces, earning a 4 out of 5 rating. Plus, these HOKA sneakers can be suitable for those evening jaunts around the neighborhood, too, thanks to subtle reflective accents that can help you stay visible as the sun goes down.

From an overall ride experience, I’d rate the HOKA Kawana 2s at a 4 out of 5. The midsole geometry is smooth enough for varied paces, but I do wish the brand would address the rather bulky heel. This can begin to clunk up your proper running form, especially during those long bouts with the treadmill or multi-hour sessions in the gym. Other HOKA silhouettes, like the Clifton 9s or Mach 6s, forgo this heel design but are (admittedly) more attuned to running than cross-training.

Thankfully, getting into and out of these kicks is a breeze due to the integrated pull tab at the heel. You can quickly get these versatile cross-trainers locked in for training or off and into your gym bag for the trek home. If you want a more traditional cross-training shoe for out-of-gym wear, we recommend the new Reebok Nano X5s with a classic silhouette and range of vibrant and subdued colorways.

Good for: Gym-goers wanting extra arch support across their footprint.

Why We Like It

While the adage of “no pain, no gain” may seem like a motivating notion, it holds no weight when it comes to cross-training shoes. I mean, who doesn’t want their toes to remain comfortable throughout their entire gym session? Building off the success of its inaugural iteration, the CXT-2s from TYR stand out as some of the most well-cushioned trainers thanks to the brand’s impressive SURGENRG foam midsole.

I’ve trained atop this midsole tech for a while and am still impressed by its responsiveness and subtle energy return. I can easily find stable footing for compound lifts, yet the cushioning is still pliable enough for more flexible movements like calf raises. Naturally, you want a little rigidity in your cross trainers — you don’t want the foam to pancake out when under a heavy back squat or pulling a tough deadlift — but I feel these are some of the best options available when looking for as much plush as possible. Overall, I rate the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5.

Other upgrades to this new TYR silhouette include a more anatomical footprint, most notably in the overall width. Compared to the original CXT-1s, the CXT-2s are 4 millimeters wider. This can be ideal for wide-footed athletes that may struggle to find a sneaker that’s comfortable enough for regular training. Other wide-foot-friendly profiles include the Nike Metcon 9s, among others.

In terms of grip and traction, I score the outsole at 4.5 out of 5. The brand’s TYRTAC outsole design is, well, tacky enough for multiple flooring options, and there’s no questioning your foot placement when getting into position. Picture hitting the basketball court with a brand-new pair of sneakers.

There’s also a good sense of lockdown with these TYR trainers thanks to the TPU Stability Strap that covers the sides and heel. However, I rate the security at 3.75 out of 5 given the more plush tongue. While ultra cozy over your foot, this thicker material can get in the way of your laces, resulting in a messy overlay that could lead to unwanted pressure.

Good for: People wanting a high-cushion experience with plenty of sturdiness for dedicated cross-training.

Why We Like It

As the cross-training category has begun to level out over the years, so has the common asking price of high-quality sneakers. Akin to the best running shoes from HOKA, Asics, and New Balance, common price tags for the best cross-training shoes typically hover between $125 and $150. However, the PUMA Fuse lineup continues to be a worthwhile, wallet-friendly solution for budget-minded athletes with the 3.0 iteration coming in at just $120.

I’ve owned all three versions of the PUMA Fuse cross-trainer, and feel the 3.0 is the most valuable yet. I’m happy PUMA has expanded the toe box and improved the lacing system of this gym shoe over the years, and I see no big differences between the traction and comfort in these kicks in comparison to my other go-to training sneakers.

Another reason why I admire these budget-friendly workout shoes is their quick break-in period. Yes, there is a little bit of snugness along the toe box on initial wears, but the upper quickly stretches to their premier balance of fit and performance. I rate the break-in at 4.5 out of 5 because these shoes quickly form to your footprint for that perfect match. As flexible as it is, though, the thicker mesh upper can run hot at times, limiting the shoe’s breathability.

In terms of stability, I rate the Fuse 3.0s at 4.5 out of 5. The geometry of the midsole gives the heel a sort of flared aesthetic, which can act as a grounded platform ideal for squats or heavy presses. Plus, the updated shank within the midsole helps create a more stable underfoot sensation, which can be helpful when, say, taking a wider stance for sumo deadlifts or back squats.

Now, the cost effectiveness does limit your colorway options. Currently, PUMA offers the Fuse 3.0s in three hues — a more limited variety in comparison to other cross-trainers on the market. As such, I score the style at 3 out of 5. If you’re on the hunt for more available colorways, I’d suggest the TYR CXT-2s or NOBULL Outwork Edge series that offer upwards of 18 available profiles.

Good for: Folks looking for a cross-training sneaker below the average $125 to $150 price point.

Why We Like It

While I’m not a big supporter of wearing your gym shoes for everyday activities, cross-trainers are inherently more multipurpose than other training accessories like the best knee sleeves or wrist wraps. If you’re looking for a pair of cross-training sneakers that fit comfortably in and out of the gym, we recommend the Savage 1s from Born Primitive thanks to their sleek design, range of colorways, and impressive outsole that’s grippy across multiple terrain.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scores the outsole design at 4 out of 5, stating, “I like the more rugged horizontal and vertical profile of the component. It’s a nice reprieve from the typical waffle or diamond patterns you see in other cross-trainers.” Additionally, the deeper lug pattern resembles the best trail running shoes, meaning you could find proper footing on more rugged pathways like unpaved sidewalks or gravel walkways.

In terms of style, the Born Primitive Savage 1s earn a 4-out-of-5 rating from our tester. “I like the range available with these sneakers. While the all-black pair I tested isn’t my particular taste, I do see options that fit better with my personality.” Of course, though, if you’re really looking to push the envelope with vibrant colorways, we recommend looking at the CXT-2s from TYR available in 18 different profiles.

I, too, own a pair of Savage 1s and can attest that the sizing is, well, true to size. I also appreciate the more anatomical toe box that gives you plenty of space for toe splaying during setups. However, finding that perfect lockdown can take some doing given the shorter laces. I also feel that the wider toe box may be less ideal for narrow-footed athletes, so be sure to pay close attention to sizing charts during orders.

Lastly, our tester likes how stable the Savage 1s are in training, rating the sneaker at 4 out of 5 for the category. “The 4-millimeter offset is almost flat, making them good for static lifts and presses,” they note. “However, those more accustomed to higher heel-to-toe drops may feel some discomfort upon initial wears.”

Good for: Individuals looking for a high-quality cross-training shoe that can be worn outside of workout protocols.

Why We Like It

In terms of putting wear and tear on your sneakers, HIIT workouts may just be the most aggressive on footwear. You’re jumping, sprinting, climbing, and lifting through challenging circuits, so you need durable, efficient kicks to complete your listed workout. R.A.D. One — a newcomer in the fitness footwear game — is our recommended silhouette with its v2 cross-training shoe. This latest version of the popular CrossFit shoe features a redesigned outsole for added side-to-side stability and abrasion resistance alongside a slew of stylish, eye-catching colorways.

I’ve trained in the previous R.A.D. Ones and do feel they’re exceptionally durable, so this second version should prove similar. I score the durability at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the R.A.D. Wave profile of the outsole that provides extra rubber along the lateral and medial sides of the foot. These added “waves” can help with side-to-side stability and serve as an extra barrier of protection for rope climbs. Other rope-climb-centric cross-trainers include the Inov-8 F-Lite G-300s and Nike Metcon 9s.

The previous R.A.D. One v1s featured a narrow last — the actual foot-like shape of the sneaker — common in cross-training shoes, so I suspect similar sensations with the R.A.D. One v2. I rate the sizing at a conservative 3.75 out of 5 and caution athletes to pay close attention to the brand’s sizing chart — wider-footed individuals may need to size up for that premier fitment.

One of the hallmarks of this R.A.D. One brand that’s been sweeping across the CrossFit scene is its array of limited release colorways, almost making the buying experience a bit of a treasure hunt. While it seems the brand’s inventory has expanded to allow for more routine orders, I still rate the style at 4.5 out of 5 given the vibrant colors and sleek aesthetics. Plus, the new wave pattern of the outsole gives these silhouettes a unique look that’s closer to some of footwear’s most popular profiles like the Nike Air DT Max ‘96s or Reebok Shaqnosis. Unfortunately, though, you will need to pay for that aforementioned style. At $150, these are some of the most expensive cross-trainers on the market.

Good for: HIIT athletes in need of a durable shoe that’s capable of multidirectional movements.

Why We Like It

Deadlifts can be a tricky exercise to plan around when it comes to your footwear of choice. You want the most ground contact possible to facilitate those stable pulls, which is why a minimalist shoe can be ideal for these needs (or even just some of the best deadlift socks, if your gym allows it). The TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers have quickly become my go-to cross-trainers for deadlift days, because they are essentially an overbuilt sock with an anatomical footprint and breathable mesh upper.

The zero-drop makeup of these trainers allows me to easily find my footing for both conventional and sumo pulls, and I also like how grippy the TYRTac rubber outsole is across the platform. I rate the stability at 4.5 out of 5 for these reasons.

I also score the style at 4 out of 5 for these all-new TYR cross-trainers. Over time, I’ve seen this silhouette increase its available colorways across both the Security Strap and Lace-Up variations, giving athletes plenty of options when it comes to hues and patterns.

While the TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer is my top pick for deadlifts, I’ve also found them to be versatile enough for other exercises. The upper is breathable enough that you won’t work up too much of a sweat, and the midfoot Adjustable Stability Straps — available in the Security Strap profile — can help you fine-tune your lockdown for that premier fit in an instant.

Of course, though, you’ll need to buy into the barefoot movement, which may be too much for some. For traditional cross-training footwear, popular profiles like the Reebok Nano X5s, Nike Metcon 9s, and TYR CXT-2s may be more appealing.

The one caveat that I do have with these Barefoot Trainers is the sizing. The toe box is more anatomical than other cross-trainers, which can lead to more room than desired. I recommend sizing down a half size if you want to achieve that true sock-like fit. In total, I score the sizing at 4 out of 5 because of this (minor) critique.

Good for: Athletes targeting deadlifts that want a tacky sense of grip without unnecessary heel height.